Fez to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss: Private day trip

Founded around the 3rd century BC, Volubilis flourished as a Roman outpost from the 1st to 3rd centuries. After being reclaimed by local tribes it remained inhabited for another 700 years, even serving as the seat of the Idrisid dynasty before they relocated to Fez. Amazingly, Volubilis remained in good condition until the mid-18th century, when it was devastated by an earthquake and subsequently quarried for to build Meknes. Even so, Volubilis is recognized by UNESCO for being being so well preserved. Though only half the site has been excavated, visitors can still find the remains of a 3rd century basilica and a triumphal arch, and plenty of other building foundations. However, the highlights are the beautiful mosaics that have been preserved in-situ. While some have been moved to archaeological museums, the ‘Labors of Hercules’, and remaining mosaics at the House of Venus or stunning.

Moulay Idriss is the burial site of the great-grandson of the prophet Muhammed, who came to Morocco in the 6th century. His tomb was rebuilt and renovated by Moulay Ismail in the late 17 or early 18th century, and its sacred significance meant that non-Muslims weren’t allowed into the town until 1912 (and are still not allowed to enter the tomb). It wasn’t until 2005 that the current King of Morocco, Muhammed VI, issued a decree permitting non-Muslims to stay overnight in the town. Because of its historic inaccessibility, the holy town is still a relaxing place to explore compared to the country’s main tourist destinations. Wandering the winding roads through the historic center, you’re sure to discover brightly painted passageways, traditional architecture, and intricate mosaics. The Moulay Idriss mosque has the only cylindrical minaret in Morocco, and was built using stones from the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis, and is covered with verses from the quran.